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Commentary and Discussion From the Retail Community
Dick’s and Etsy’s Christmas spots deal with COVID-19 realities in different ways
The two 30-second commercials being presented today are quite clear in their messaging about addressing the realities associated with the pandemic. Which does a better job of connecting with each…
What makes a great retail store manager?
A great retail store manager develops teams, continually inspires and elevates morale. The job has become increasingly tech-savvy. Having the right attitude and being open to feedback, however, is a…
Will self-driving, electric vehicles power Walmart’s contactless delivery future?
When Walmart’s customers in Scottsdale, AZ place their home delivery orders early next year, they may find their groceries arriving in a self-driving electric car. Are retailers and their technology…
Will Ulta shops turn Target into a beauty destination?
Target and Ulta Beauty have announced a strategic partnership that will result in the launch of a “shop-in-shop” concept — Ulta Beauty at Target — that the two retailers believe…
Are grocers downplaying curbside pickup at their own expense?
A university study finds grocers overly relying on in-store pickup as a quick, low-cost roll-out during the pandemic. As a result, many are not maximizing opportunities from providing curbside and…
Moms will decide how much holiday cheer retailers enjoy this year
Retail sales expectations for Christmas are hopeful, but in the end, it may come down to how moms with kids are feeling about their financial situations when the books are…
What will President Joe Biden mean for retail?
Joe Biden hopes aggressive spending will revive a pandemic-battered economy and offset any negative impacts from new taxes and regulations. Much depends, however, on which side controls the Senate. What…
Should Trader Joe’s have gone public with COVID-19 rates?
Last week, Trader Joe’s announced that 1,250, or 2.4 percent, of its 53,000 employees have tested positive for COVID-19 within the past eight months. Was Trader Joe’s decision to reveal…
AI poses a leadership test for business
The increasing attention being paid to artificial intelligence (AI) raises questions about its integration with social sciences and humanity, according to a business school professor. What adjustments may retail leadership…
Will store certifications make customers feel safer?
With stores open but COVID-19 concerns remaining, customers are seeking assurance that retailers are taking safety seriously. An industry group hopes to give them that assurance with a new certification…
Under Armour does a Nike me-too and expects success
Under Armour has announced that it plans to cull “undifferentiated retail partners” from its distributor list to focus more on its own consumer-direct digital initiatives. Do you think Under Armour…
Can virtual working move beyond clumsy Zoom calls?
Caught Zoom fatigue yet? New research predicts advanced technologies and 5G will add options for a full range of sensorial experiences to help companies reimagine the virtual working experience. Do…
Did Gap just learn that no good tweet goes unpunished?
The marketers at the Gap released a Twitter post of a hoodie, half blue and half red, that was not of an actual item for sale, but just imagery to…
Stop & Shop goes back to the future with nostalgic brands
Stop & Shop has launched a special section on its website spotlighting a curated selection of food items harking back to the 1990s. Do you see a bigger opportunity for…
Is it time for mainstream retail to get into the legal weed business?
Many politicians across the U.S. no longer see the legalization of marijuana for medical or recreational issues as a red or blue issue. The only color they see is green. …
Grocery workers continue to be at a high risk from COVID-19
Grocery shopping has settled into a rhythm since the tumultuous early days of the novel coronavirus pandemic, but a new study shows that a significant risk remains for employees. Do…
Did Burger King just ask consumers to buy a Big Mac?
Burger King in the UK is asking customers to support its fast-food rivals. What is your reaction to the campaign to encourage business for fast-food restaurants, including rival chains like…
How do online reviews build trust?
Research continues to show that most consumers trust online reviews as much or nearly as much as recommendations from family and friends. The data continues to offer insights into what’s…
Will Walmart’s decision to scrap robots have far-ranging effects?
Walmart has experimented with the use of robots for carrying out a number of functions on sales floors and back rooms, but at least one of those experiments is about…
Sorry, Virginia, there will be no Santa at Macy’s
For the first time since 1861, Santa will not be greeting kids at Macy’s New York City flagship due to the novel coronavirus pandemic. Did Macy’s make the right move…
2020 creeps up on the RetailWire Christmas Commercial Challenge
We are pleased to bring you the eighth annual RetailWire Christmas Commercial Challenge, featuring spots from Hobby Lobby and Kohl’s. Which retailer does a better job of connecting with its…
